Honda CR-V 2.0i-MMD Hybrid EX Review
When it comes to hybrid SUVs, the Honda CR-V 2.0i-MMD Hybrid EX stands out as a practical, family-friendly option. Priced at around £41,000 for the EX trim, the CR-V Hybrid starts from £32,815, offering a solid mix of performance, comfort, and renowned Honda reliability. So, is it worth the price tag? Let's dive into the details.
If you're looking for an SUV that's smooth, quiet, and stress-free to drive, the Honda CR-V 2.0i-MMD Hybrid EX should be on your shortlist.
Performance and Efficiency
Under the hood, this CR-V Hybrid sports a 2.0-litre petrol-electric hybrid engine that delivers a smooth and efficient driving experience. Honda claims a fuel economy of 39.2 mpg, but in real-world conditions, drivers may achieve even better results—closer to 42.6 mpg, especially around town. That's impressive for a hybrid SUV of this size. The engine is paired with Honda’s eCVT gearbox, which mimics a traditional CVT but works more like a direct-drive system. While it's not the most thrilling transmission to drive, it’s smooth and efficient.
The car offers three driving modes—Sport, Economy, and EV—but the majority of the time, you'll likely keep it in Hybrid mode for maximum efficiency. The ride is exceptionally calm, quiet, and comfortable, with minimal road or wind noise entering the cabin. It’s not a car built for aggressive driving, but for what it’s designed to do—gliding smoothly through city streets and soaking up bumps—it excels.
Practicality and Interior Space
One of the highlights of the Honda CR-V is its practicality. The 497-litre boot is spacious, easy to access, and offers versatile storage options. The power-assisted boot lid is a nice touch, although it’s a little slow. Fold the rear seats down, and you get a large, flat cargo area, perfect for loading larger items. There’s also a 12V power outlet and additional under-floor storage, which comes in handy for stowing smaller items.
Inside, the rear seats offer generous legroom and headroom, making it comfortable for adults on long journeys. The leather seats in this EX trim are comfortable, and even the middle passenger gets a decent amount of space thanks to the low transmission tunnel. Rear passengers also benefit from heated seats, USB ports, and air vents, so comfort isn't compromised in the back.
Front Cabin and Infotainment
Moving to the front, the ergonomics are fantastic—everything is within easy reach, from the volume knob on the infotainment system to the wireless phone charging pad and USB ports. The gear selector might be an acquired taste (it’s a series of buttons instead of a lever), but it doesn’t take long to get used to.
However, the infotainment system is somewhat disappointing. At just seven inches, the screen feels too small for a car in this price range, and the Garmin-based navigation system feels a bit outdated. It’s functional and includes Apple CarPlay, but for a car that costs over £40,000, you’d expect something a bit more premium.
Build Quality and Comfort
As with most Hondas, the build quality is solid and feels like it’ll last for years. While some of the materials used—especially in the rear—are on the harder side, they are durable. Soft-touch materials are more prominent in the front, and there’s padding where it counts, like around the center console to cushion your knees. It's not a luxury interior, but it’s well thought out, practical, and built to withstand daily wear and tear.
The steering wheel is comfortable, though it has a few too many controls for some. But the visibility from the driver’s seat is excellent, aided by large wing mirrors and a reversing camera. Whether you’re navigating tight city streets or cruising on the motorway, the CR-V’s driving experience is best described as calm and composed.
Competitors and Final Thoughts
At around £41,000, the Honda CR-V Hybrid EX finds itself competing with strong rivals like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson, and premium brands like Audi and Volvo. While it may lack the premium feel or high-tech features of some rivals, the CR-V’s bulletproof reliability, fuel efficiency, and sheer practicality make it a worthy contender, especially for families.
In a two-car household, the Honda CR-V Hybrid can be a brilliant all-rounder. It’s spacious, economical to run, and built to last. Yes, it’s more of a head-over-heart purchase, but when it ticks all the right boxes for reliability, space, and comfort, that’s often the smarter choice.
If you're looking for an SUV that's smooth, quiet, and stress-free to drive, the Honda CR-V 2.0i-MMD Hybrid EX should be on your shortlist.
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